A restaurant in Pennsylvania has banned children under the age of six. Is that fair?
(PHOTO CREDIT: THINKSTOCK)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
A restaurant in Monroeville, Pennsylvania, just outside Pittsburgh, is banning children younger than 6 from its dining room.
The owner of McDain's says he decided to change his restaurant's policy after older customers complained about noise and unruly behavior by children dining with parents who do little to control their kids. The policy goes into effect Saturday. If the place was closer, I would make a reservation today.
McDain's is a small restaurant - it seats about 40 people, and it sits on a quiet golf course. Not exactly Chuck E. Cheese. But nonetheless the decision to ban the little noisemakers has caused an uproar in town.
This isn't the first time a restaurant has gotten fed up with tiny diners who can't sit quietly through a meal.
Last year, a restaurant called The Olde Salty in Carolina Beach, North Carolina, ruffled some feathers after a sign saying "Screaming Children Will Not Be Tolerated!" was posted in its window. And it was magic. While some locals were up in arms about it, that restaurant owner has reported a boom in business. She says diners who are looking for a peaceful meal now seek out her restaurant.
Of course badly behaved kids are not just a problem in restaurants.
Malaysia Airlines recently announced that it's banning infants from first class because of complaints received from passengers about crying babies on long flights. Other airlines catering mainly to business travelers have also been pressured to consider child-free sections of their flights and even child-free planes. We'll see what happens. Airlines need paying customers to fill seats, and kids, poorly behaved or otherwise, are part of that equation.
Here’s my question to you: A restaurant in Pennsylvania has banned children under the age of six. Is that fair?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Julianne:
Absolutely! Asking parents to keep their children under control isn't being unreasonable; it's called being considerate of others. There is nothing wrong with parents teaching their children "good manners." If children don't learn them to respect others when they are young, then when will they?
Sandra:
Yes. In fact, I would ask those parents with older kids behaving like obnoxious spoiled brats to leave. Unfortunately, many that are yelling and screaming in the restaurants are older and should already have some manners! Somewhere along the line, someone decided that ill-mannered kids should be tolerated by all. If people wish to raise their children without respect for others, then they should not subject them to the public.
Ed:
Yes, let him do that, of course everyone who disagrees with his position has the right to not use the establishment, and to stand outside and protest his actions. I hope he is out of business in around 3-6 months.
Jennifer in Queen Creek, Arizona:
The problem is really the parents, not the children. My husband and I are very aware of our children's behavior. When our boys even act like they're going to melt down one of us loads them up and takes them to the car while the other stays and pays the check. We've received compliments from our servers on many occasions for being on top of the situation.
Diana:
This is discrimination against people with small children. What's next? Adult-only subway cars? Adult-only buses? Movie theaters?
Jim:
Given our druthers, my wife and I would only go to establishments that did not tolerate noisy/disruptive behavior from underage children. We shake our heads in dismay at those who are supposed to be acting like parents who allow their children to run amok. I wish this place was closer to DC so we could go there.
Jayne:
It's probably a moot question. What family with little kids can afford to eat out?
@jackcafferty on Twitter
I'd prefer that they would ban politicians, but otherwise it is there establishment, isn't it? if their customers fall off, then I'm sure they'll adjust their policy. That's what the free market is about...
No and it's not fair
Why don't they take the smoking room and turn it into a family area where the kids can act like fools because their parents do not correct them. It is not the kids fault that parents do not use their parental rights to correct them. My mother used to take me outside and paddle my butt then threatned me with my life if I did not behave and I turned out ok but the cafe is wrong to restrict kids. They will only loose business.
Sometimes, fair isn't what matters. What matters is that young children cannot behave properly, in public places.
Those who have young children, should frequent kid friendly places, and stay away from places that tend to cater to adults, or families with older children.
That is simply being SENSIBLE. Something too few people seem capable of, these days.
It's probably a moot question. What family with little kids can afford to eat out?
If they serve alcohol or deep fried foods or heavy sodium , yes.
YES!
All is fair in Love, War and eating out. It may not be fair but I'd like to have a % of the income.
Hey, if they run the kid's credit card and it passes, let him eat. Cy from Arlington, VA
Yes, it is fair. There is this fallacy that children have all the rights of adults. Children have rights as regards their safety and well being; eating at a restaurant is not one of them (I'm sure some money loving lawyer will beg to disagree). Having been born near the end of the Great Depression, I did not gain the full rights of as an American citizen until I reached the age of majorit, 21 years old.
Yes. In fact, I would ask those parents with older kids behaving like obnoxious spoiled brats to leave. Unfortunately, many that are yelling and screaming in the restaurants are older and should already have some manners! Somewhere along the line, some entity decided that ill-mannered kids should be tolerated by all. If people wish to raise their children without respect for others, then they should not subject them to the public.
Yes because children under 6 are complete slobs at eating. I have seen it and its not pretty.
Yes let him do that, of course everyone who disagrees with his position has the right to not use the establishment, and to stand outside and protest his actions.
I hope he is out of business in around 3-6 months..
Absolutely!! Asking parents to keep their children under control isn't being unreasonable; it's called being considerate of others. There is nothing wrong with parents teaching their children "good manners". If children don't learn them to respect others when they are young; then when will they?
this is discrimination against people with small kids.
the gov tells you what light bulbs to use why can't a ownerof a rest. tell you who he don't want to serve
This is discrimination against people with small children. what's next? adult-only subway cars? adult-only buses? movie theaters?
Are they planning on franchising ??
Where do I sign up ??
If the airlines could ban them from sitting behind me, pounding the back of my seat and screaming, that would seem fair to me.
Absolutely!! Asking parents to keep their children under control isn't being unreasonable; it's called being considerate of others. There is nothing wrong with parents teaching their children "good manners". If children don't learn to respect others when they are young; then when will they?
Livonia, Michigan
No, it isn't fair Jack. But as my conservative friends are quick to point out life isn't fair so get used to it.
Yes, it is fair. Children under 6 do not always enhance everyone's dining experience.
As for those who think it is unfair, I say, life is not fair. Deal with it.
I commend the restaurant for listeneing to customer complaints and making a tough decision. I hope they stick to it.
Didn't Pennsylvania go Republican? So, yes.... it's fair!
Sure it is. Nothing worse than trying to eat a meal you're paying good money for while someone's little monsters are wreaking havoc, while their parents do nothing. I have 2 kids, and utilized the services of a local baby sitting service until they were old enough to know how to enjoy a good meal out and behave like humans instead of animals.
No but I would love to go there.
I've seen a sign in many restaurants state it reserves the right not to serve someone, intoxication need not be the only criteria. I've long tired of seeing children run wild, parents need to be held accountable. No one ever went to dinner to hear children scream and misbehave.
FAIR????????......long over due at some restaurants......
If my "Little Lady" and I can scrape up a few extra bucks in this economy to go out to a nice restaurant, the last thing we want is to have some bratty, spoiled kids with clueless parents disrupt our special evening......
But before you judge me, I have 4 grand-kids under age 6 that I like to take out to eat.....but I choose restaurants that are family friendly or 'kid' appropriate as to not disrupt other diners who might be wanting their 'special evening' and the grand-kids know it is also their 'special evening' too.....so don't mess it up, because they know grand-pa can get mighty grumpy if they misbehave in public.
They just became a five star *****restaurant.
It's his business, if that's how he wants to run it, more power to him. There are a million other restraunts that will take your loud,. ill mannered children.
I'm torn on this one, Jack. Ageism, even reverse ageism, is a form of discrimination but your right to bring your child to a restaurnt should be limited by my right to enjoy a peaceful dinner.
It's not fair that the restaurant won't serve children under six. Children over six tend to be tough and stringy.
Jack
The better question to ask is it fair to kids that they have parents who won't take responsibility for raising them right?
Matt
Rockford
If it's Chuck-e-Cheese, No. If it's McD's, No.
If it's a restaurant where adults sometimes might want to go to relax and enjoy a meal, then it's OK. I know when I go out (seldom these days) I don't want 73 snot-nosed hellions running around screaming, crying and being loud . It's too expensive to waste my money.
I got enough of that when I took my kids to children's favorite places. I'm no longer responsible for a "little one that isn't trained yet", and I don't believe a restaurant is the place to train them – do that at home first. BE CONSIDERATE of other people.
(Maybe you think they should be allowed in X-rated dance halls also).
Its not fair in my opinion, but since children aren't one of the protected classes of people that can't be discriminated against, the restaurant is free to do it. I wonder how much the rule will hurt their business. A better approach would be to let your patrons know what behavior is expected and if it can't be acheived, encourage them to go to an establishment that isn't as fussy.
Of course it's fair, it's their business & they want to survive. If parents knew how to parent children in restaurants, airplanes, malls etc. it wouldn't be necessary.
David, Las Vegas
The banning of children is not a big deal to me because hey, sometimes on a date or what have you it would be nice to go to a place children free. However the owner said it was selfish of parents to bring children to restaurants. As a single mother most time I have no choice but to bring my child to a restaurant where he has every right to eat as much as I do. Plus I have been in many restaurants where my 2 yr old has been much quieter then the table of drunk people next to us.
Jack,
It is to the other patrons who won't have to listen to the screeching or put up with uncontrolled kids running around wild.
Jim
Reno, Nevada
There are millions of restaurants that do not ban children - and there are restaurants that are entirely too sophisticated in their fare and their ambiance for children to enjoy. Other patrons who pay for that fare and ambiance do not wish to be disturbed by screaming children who have no place there and are bored out of their minds. This recalls a sign I saw in the window of a bistro: "Children who misbehave will be given a free cup of espresso and a new puppy."
It is their business – If you don't like the Idea do not eat there. If enough people stop patronizing the restaurant – bad Idea
If business booms – good Idea.
I have no children under six – good Idea to me.
Yes I think it is fair. There are a lot of people who would like to sit down and eat their meal in peace without a bunch of screaming and unruly kids running around a restaurant. I'm sure there is plenty of restaurants in the area that will be glad for the new business this particular restaurant created for them. So where is the problem?
Seems fair to me. Their restaurant their rules. There is nothing worse then going to a nice steak restaurant at night and spending a small fortune on a steak down dinner and drinks only to have a couple with a screaming kid set next to you. You wear half their kids food while they laugh and smile at their little bundle of pure terror flinging fries all over the place. The parents think it is cute but what you see when you look over is a poster child for birth control.
YES, YES IT IS! If I had a business and wanted to cater to a "no small kid crowd" I'd do it and I have 3 kids under that age! If it offends anyone, then they can go somewhere else. If I remember it's still a "quasi-free country".
Sure it is. I remember several restaurants in Atlanta, 30 or 40 years ago, which did not allow children. As long as I am not the responsible adult, I am not bothered by noisy children, but some folks are, it's fair that they have quiet places to eat.
Yes! Well, no. They should ban bad parents who don't control the kids under 12. That goes for airplanes, too.
Carol in Norhampton, Ma
Yes! A child under the age of six should be asleep by 8:00.
Everone needs time away from very young children with a block of time for just parents. METALWORKER
Jack,
Most everyone is going to say it is fair to reject under 6 year-old children; however, we were all kids at one time – even you and me Jack; therefore, I suggest if the restaurant is large enough to have a non-children section, and another section for chaos.
Sometimes it is simply better to have proper places for our children to eat and play. Children want to be engaged in activity, not to sit around a table and act in a stifled manner.
Joe, Binghamton, NY
I don't think it's fair to have all 6 yr. olds banned from the restaurant.. I think they should ban the parents if they can't control their kids.
Rudy
Roanoke,VA.
Fair to who? Fair to patrons who dislike eating amid a chorus of screaming, whining preschoolers? Fair to parents trying to have a peaceful dinner away from their own adolescent children? Fair to the serving staff who don't have to clean up repeated spills and regurgitated green beans? A private business is fair to most or successful for none.
Sure, it is fair! A restaurant has some rights in who it serves.
I know the frustration of eating near a fussy child who is a stranger!
I know the embarassment of taking kin to a restaurant with a fussy child in our bunch.
I have been on both sides. I understand both sides. I think it is fair of the restaurant. A number of restaurants still do not discriminate. I would think a bit before picking a restaurant with a fussy child in our bunch–like eating in the car.
This is a great idea and needs to be applied to movie theaters as well. I went to the movies last week and the theater was like a damn daycare!!! It was very difficult to concentrate on the film and I missed a couple of scenes!!! These lousy parents need to get a babysitter or stay home!
Just came from a restaurant for breakfast where a family had a screaming toddler and did nothing to quite him. They just went on with their breakfast and let the kid scream and yell. So is it fair to ban children under six? I'd say it's fair for any restaurant anywhere to ban parents who let their children of any age disrupt the dinning pleasures of other guests.
No, it is not fair to the kids, Jack. It would be nice to see someone open a restaurant across the street that bans grumpy old men from eating there.
If you have worked in a restaurant, you would understand completely. I did for 12 years and more than a few times had to ask people to control their children and not bother other diners. The parents would be sitting like nothing was happening while their children were running rampant through the restaurant. You kept thinking the parents were going to say or do something, but once they start bothering other people you have to step up yourself and say something.
Fair to whom? The children don't know the difference and, if the parents who wanted to take them there, don't understand why the kids are not wanted, then they don't have a clue. There is a time and a place for children, and this restauranteur has decided that his restaurant is not one of them, at least if they're under six.
It's as fair as banning any group of people from any private establishment. What's the difference between a no kids restaurant and a no women restaurant?
The restaurant owners have every right to make the determination of banning children in order to make their premises, where people come to eat and socialize, as inviting and relaxing to the majority as long as they are not discriminating on the basis of race, creed, religion and sex.
Nina – Southern California
Jack,
So are the "under six" kids supposed to sit out in the car while the parents, and the kids above six, eat? There are other options the restaurant could have taken. The restaurant could have taken one of their slow nights and made it a "families only" night. If the restaurant has a banquet room, it could be used to seat families with kids under six when it's not being used. No, Jack, what the restaurant did is not fair.
Sure it's fair but is it smart? We currently bar children from strip clubs and drinking establishments and even from military service. It's understandable that the owner of the restaurant in Pennsylvania may want to cater to a certain clientele but to totally exclude children 6 and below is not smart. A better approach may be to have exclusively adult evenings/nights which would allow both sets of clientele to frequent his restaurant.
private bussiness has the right!
Sure it's fair. A business owner can run their business as they please as long as they don't break any laws.
But after the consumers have their say, these places may no longer be in business. Market forces decide. That's the way it works.
We reserve the right to refuse service. Yes ban children under six. The parents never say no. They try to bribe good behavior from them. Sometimes it works sometimes it dont.
A restaurant in Pennsylvania has banned children under the age of six. Is that fair?
If they call themselves a "Family Restaurant" then yes, otherwise no.
As a parent I did not take my children out in public until they were old enough to sit quietly and follow directions without being "corrected". I hired a babysitter if we wanted to go out until then.
We love children, but they should stay home verses taking them out and having them run amuck.
Jenna
Roseville CA
Fair is a tricky word these days. Fair to whom? Children are not the only ones to be considered in this situation. I truly enjoy having children around, well behaved children. I think most people feel the same. It's not the children they object to; it's poor behavior. If parents used good sense about the impact of their children on others around them, this would not be an issue. If your child/children are behaving then enjoy your dinner and others can do the same. If your child is too loud or misbehaving, it's your responsibility to remove them from that environment.
Oklahoma
Personally I think it’s fair. There are indeed places which are just not suitable for kids. I also think that it should be up to the owner of the restaurant how he/she wishes to run his/her business. But the underlying issue of the matter involves discrimination against age. Certainly nobody would tolerate a ban on all persons over the age of 70. It all depends how one thinks discrimination against age should be viewed and whether it should apply to kids as it does to adults. My opinion is that it shouldn’t apply to kids and is therefore, to that extent, fair.
Ya ho!!!, Where is the restaurant in Pennsylvania? I want to go!
The liberals keep wanting to force their lack of discipline on us even where we go out to eat!
Tell the parents of these little brats that they need to teach them manners by the age of 5 or leave them at home when they go to places for adults!
I for one want them banded from getting on commercial airlines also!
There is no reason for tantrums in a world of so many so called mental health professionals! Send them all to Dr. Phil and Dr. Drew (bunch of frauds) to deal with!
They own it, they make the rules. Go to Mickey D's, please, and take your children.
Of course it's not fair but it is necessary. Too many parents act like they don't hear their brats screaming. Maybe a national list of 6 year olds that misbehave, accessible by all eateries would be the answer. Even better would be a $500.00 dollar fine form parents of these devil children. Can you tell that I don't have children.
Who cares? I'm 6 and a half. I got mine.
Is age discrimination fair? Next they will ban you for no shirt or shoes. If all you have to ware is the diaper your mom put on you, and you aren't old enough to put on your shoes, shirt and tie, go home and grow up. When you're old enough, take your business somewhere else.
tampa, fl Really? Where is this wonderful place? Is it a franchise? Would they consider raising the ban age to 17? When I was a child, and on the rare occasions I was taken out to eat, I was expected to be on my best behavior, or suffer the consequences of corporal punishment right then along with not going out until i reached maturity. Today, I use the drive up so I don't have to be put through both the delightful antics of their little monsters and of those that should not be allowed to be polluting our gene pool. they must have misheard the old adage of "children should be obscene and heard".
Nothing is fair but peaceful is a nice runner-up.
Many people complained about the annoyance of cigarette smoke years ago and restaurants were required to provide their customers with no smoking areas that led to no smoking at all. If that standard can be applied to tobacco products than I see no reason why it can't be applied to the screaming little rug rats that are in the restaurants with the elderly who are trying to relax.
The only other alternative is to require a muzzle on all kids under 10 years old or hand out tobacco to the elderly so they can puff away and relax.
Heck yes it's fair!! I hate going out to dinner to a nice restaraunt only to have the whole thing ruined by children of dopes who let them run around and trow food and crawl on the flloor.
NO! Banning all children under "12" would be fair.
Jack, it is fair. I've been in public places where screaming children kicked my chair, screamed in my ear, threw food, crawled under tables, stuck their fingers in my food, and where were their parents? I have no problem being seated next to well-behaved children, nor do I have a problem if a child throws the grandmother of all temper tantrums or has an epic meltdown provided that said child's parent(s) remove him immediately. The problem is parents don't parent anymore, and if another adult should so much as look at their child, the parents pitch a fit (you can't tell my child what to do even if he has gotten a hold of matches and is setting the curtains on fire).
There are plenty of restaurants that cater to screaming children–McDonald's, Chuck-E-Cheese, etc. I can choose not to patronize those kinds of restaurants. But I see nothing wrong in a restaurant banning small children–they can't sit still, are prone to meltdowns, and disturb other diners, cause accidents, and more.
Is it fair? What isn't fair is that too many of my restaurant trips get ruined by monster kids with monster parents that don't care how much noise they make. I wish I lived in Pennsylvania so I could go to this restaurant and be assured of a quiet and pleasant meal....
I'm with you, Jack – if it were closer I'd make a reservation today.
Yes! It sounds like a very civilized place to eat. We have a restaurant here with a sign that says, “Unruly children will be sold.” It’s a nice place to eat. I remember that a very long time ago when I was little, I was under strict orders to be seen but not heard. Where did you say that place is again? Do they take reservations? I don't care where it is.
What a novel idea,
a resturant for adults !!!!!!
I Don't See How That's Fair To Parents Who Have Kids Under Six! So What Does Every Restaurant Do? Ban Children Under Six From Coming Into Their Restaurants? It's Like Segregation In A Way To Me And When Places Or People Come Up With Silly Things Like This It Offends Me!
Scott Stodden (Freeport, Illinois)
I'm with you, Jack. Wish I lived closer–maybe someone near me will do the same thing. Parents do not control their kids and don't seem to care about the other diners. We go out to have a nice quiet time RELAXING. So I say to that restaurant: You Go Girl!!
I applaud this action. Parents must learn that having children is their decision and people have the right not to be subjected to the unruly kids in a social setting. Many times dinner out has been ruined by parents who refuse to control their children. They seem to be oblivious to the fact that their little darlings are a disturbance. It's bad enough that I have to listen to kids throw tantrums in the grocery store. There is no reason that some public places can't be adult only. If you have kids and want to have dinner in a place that bans kids, get a baby sitter.
It's about time, Jack. There are plenty of restaurants that cater to families. Those of us without children don't have to go to Chuck E. Cheese to have our meal ruined by screaming, uncontrolled kids, and if we dare complain, we are treated like terrorists. I wish I could find such a place in Knoxville. I wonder how far it is to Pittsburgh?
I believe that this decision should be left up to the restaurant owner and his clientele. While this penalizes the few parents with well behaved children, it's perfectly fair to the other patrons, who, like myself, have had to put up with having spaghetti thrown in my hair, and having the parents not either apologize, nor correct their children. This society has placed great store on a "child's self esteem", but many of these children remain unmannerly and ill behaved for much of their lives. These children are often victims of a horrible disorder that my wife and I refer to as SDD (Spanking Deficit Disorder), an ailment of the parents, not the children.
It's not just the restaurant owners that don't like it. We are raising our granddaughter's children and love them to death, but when we go out to dinner for a quite evening we leave them at home. And don't want to listen to someone else's children who are not as lovable as ours.
Yes it's fair. This whole "kids can do no wrong" perpetuation has to stop. Guess what, if you can't behave there might actually be consequences. Finally.
Absolutely, if I go to a restaurant and pay to have a nice meal I don't want some screaming kid sitting next to me, not even my own grandchildren.
It's the parents of unruly children who should be banned. If I behaved badly in public at that age my parents would inform me in no uncertain terms that I would either behave myself or we were leaving, or I'd be grounded, or lose some other privilege. Allowing bad behavior at a young age gives kids the impression it's okay, leading to bad behavior as adults. If these parents don't or won't control their own children they leave the rest of society no choice but to let them know it's unacceptable. A lot of businesses just post a sign saying we reserve the right to refuse service. It's just another way of saying behave yourself or go somewhere else.
If I was closer I would make a reservation there too. A restaurant is part of a service industry that is financially dependent upon their customer base. Banning a part of society that is known to often "disturb the peace" is very wise and actually quite healthy; reducing the stress levels of its patrons may decrease their indigestion.
You better believe it, it's fair. Kids are to be seen not heard. Plus the screaming kids' parents are no better than the kids. They argue and scream in public also. So if the parents feel offended and will boycott the restaurants, good riddance. Let them go someplace else.
Also not to change the subject, most people stay away from Cruises that
advertise "kids sail for free". I'm not sure if it's still going on.
If you have been on a ship with a lot of kids, you should try it.
Little kids (8-14) run rampant on the ship until midnight, while the parents party.
Do not band the children band the parents.If in order to have a child child in this country the parents would first have to take a IQ test our birth rate would be cut in half.
Seems like discrimination to me. What if the owner had complaints about serving openly gay people. Would he or she be within their rights of banning them in their establishment?
Some restaurants provide a quiet, romantic atmosphere. Other restaurants provide a place for business. Some provide alchohol. I don't want children in those types of restaurants when I go out. It is fair to all customers of such restaurants to not have to listen to screaming babies and running six year olds. We adults are the paying customers. Do what is fair for us.
If they don't want young couples to come in with their children, yes, that's fair. If that's what they want, then that's what they'll get.
Joe in Delray Beach, Florida
Private business owner. 'Nuff said.
Yes, it's fair but I would've made the age limit even higher. It's not so much bad children as it is bad parenting. Of course, I'm not sure which is worse - a screaming baby and young children running around annoying others or loud cell phone conversations. Rude, disruptive behavior isn't restricted to the young.
Yes, it's fair. it's a privately owned business. They can do as they choose. It should also apply to the ridiculous smoking laws. If you don't like a business's policies, than take your business elsewhere. It's called freedom!!
Children are a nuisance when they have parents who ignore their bad behavior. Parents who don't start teaching their children at a young age proper etiquette in a restaurant should stay at home with them until they have taught them. That's harsh, but the screams of children in the middle of a meal when they have no physical ailment is not on anyone's menu. I love children, but that doesn't mean that they have the right to abuse everyone within earshot.
I went to a fast food place last week and the only table was near a little brat throwing a hissy fit. We had one on the floor of the hospital doing the same thing. If your kids act like animals keep them hope, I don't want to hear it or see it.
Jack,
Does this not beg the larger question about parents inability to control their children in many public areas: restaurants, churches, airplanes libraries,cruise ships, etc. They bring their unruly children to a restaurant and ask everyone to smile and enjoy their dining experience. Those parents who are fully aware that they have done a poor parenting job and expect the public to look the other way. Those who had planned to have a pleasant, reasonably quiet dining experience have rights too!!
Don Hapward
Absolutely fair. Too many parents let their little spawn roam freely without control. What ever happened to restraints and pacifiers.
What about children above the age of 6 who do not know how to behave properly in restaurants?
San Mateo, CA
Jack,
I feel like people should just teach their children how to act properly. To many kids today are aloud to get away with anything.
there is nothing worst than having screaming little brats at any public place.Parental control seems to be a thing of the past.
I'm from the W.C Fields school of thought.......
I think this is the most stupid thing a business can do in today's economy. I hope that everyone with children, no matter what age they are ban this restaurant. It would serve them right!~
Anyone who has a problem with it, do not have to dine there. I'm sure there are plenty of people who will enjoy the new rule and take advantage of the assurance of a nice quiet dinner.
It's completely fair. The restaurant in question is not a family restaurant.
Don't like it? Get a baby sitter, you'll probably pay just as much for your child's dinner anyway.
Is it fair? Are you kidding me, is it far that I spend my limit money to go out to a movie, or eat and have to deal with screaming brats running amouk?
It was your choice to have it, I didn't do it, so why do I have to waste my money babysitting your kid in public?
Of course it's fair. I won't argue with someone's right to have children, so they shouldn't argue with my right to not be bothered by them. Maybe if discipline wasn't so taboo nowadays, this wouldn't be an issue.
Ban kids from restuarants.. Sure why not? Can we also ban old fuddy-duddies from kids' restuarants?
Absolutely fair. I am a mother of 2 children (now ages over 6), but I have also been both a restaurant employee as well as a patron many times over. I firmly believe that certain restaurants should be able to identify themselves as "kid-friendly" and others that are not; it would help EVERYONE involved to know what to expect.
Totally fair and absolutely necessary for nice restaurants to start imposing policies like this against unruly or disruptive children and babies. And this is coming from the new mother of a 4-month-old.
When my daughter was about 3 years old, we were having lunch with her grandfather and his friend. She started to have a wild tantrum–I took her outside, and Grandpa brought my lunch out when he and has friend were through. At the time, I thought that what I did was reasonable–apparently, a lot of parents these days think they have no responsibility to curb behavior that disturbs others! (like Republicans!)
Sure it's fair but any time a business limits it's customer base they take away from their overall revenue potential. People on their cell phone at the table next to me are much more irritating than a rowdy four year old. At least you would expect the cell phone user to know better.
Jack your comment on children flying is wrong; airlines make little or no revenue on infants and very small, screaming children because parents can hold them in their seat. Summertime travel for us who have to fly everywhere for work can be truly miserable, and a screaming child and their ill-mannered parents can make any seat, even first class, miserable.
ya gotta love it. Restaurants are allowing dogs on their patios and outlawing children. We're FINALLY waking up as a nation.
Jack,
When I go out to restaurants I ask the hostess to specifically seat me away from children....now I don't have to ask!
Yes it is fair. Part of Freedom of Speech.
Some restaurants want shirts, shoes, jackets, then why can't some deny children !
Yes it's fair. I worked in a restaurant last year and you would be surprised the number of parents that let their children run wild.
One mom told me at the time of the seating "I will let you know in advance my son will write on your walls".
I would patron a brat free restaurant...Yes...make my reservation now!
Jack I have the perfect solution. Designate the entire restaurant or a segment of it as a "Quiet Zone/Section" on certain days of the week. We do this on trains and people with children know not to board those cars.
Yes! Yes! Yes! They should be banned from adult settings. I enjoy a good quiet meal with my significant other and kids usually drive you up the wall with their screaming and running around! Chabari from Kenya.
I don't know if it's fair to ban all kids but a no-tolerance policy on screaming kids would be nice.
Yes, it is fair. They don't belong there in the first place. Employ a teenager as a babysitter and keep the rug rats home.
This is fair; because kids act up all the time. Many may say what can you really do about it; although the parents can. It shows how poorly of a parenting job they are doing and in order eat at this restaurant, airlines, supermarkets etc. they must control their children.
If it's the only restaruant in town, I'd be a little peeved as a parent. If there are other choices it wouldn't bother me. Either way a private for profit business should be allowed to set it's own rules regarding his prospective clientele so long as it isn't illegally excluding a legally protected class of citizens.
It is completely fair. After all, we have 55+ communities for the same reason, people want peace and should be allowed a place to get it. Also, there are plenty of places designed just for kids. Let the parents of the unruly monsters take them to Chuck-E-Cheese. You won't find many adults there who would complain about noisy children.
Of course its fair! Where is this restaurant? I want to book a reservation!
Hmmm, Jack, don't mind them, I think they really don't mean the business. My child always asks me to take him to restaurant. So does this means that there is no right to leave?
Kudos to this restaurant. Let's move this wisdom to all commercial flights, mass transportation, etc. Crying babies are nothing more than "mouth bombs" and need to be kept home and out of my ear range. Their parents are nothing more than selfish jerks for letting them cry to deafening levels in public.
Jack, since so many folks nowadays can't or won't control their rabid young, I don't even consider going out to eat anymore unless it is late, or I know the little monsters are in school or some other institution. I was raised to respect others from a very young age, and I knew that if I stepped out of line, my Mom would bring down the weight of her displeasure across my behind! Today, folks are too lazy to raise their kids right, too scared to set them straight, and just too self absorbed to see how their crappy parenting messes up a good time for everyone else.
It's about time someone took a stand on this. It's not the kids fault..it's the parents. There should also be a ban on parents taking their infants to the movies. If you can't afford a babysitter...stay home! I could not believe when I saw a couple walk into the movies with thier infant baby. And yes, it did cry!
is it fair to people spending good money on a nice dinner only to have it disturbed by unruly kids ? the problem is not the kids, it's the parents that let them act like that
Absolutely! Little people should eat at little people eateries until they can manage to behave themselves in public. How fast they learn to do that is MOM and DAD's job, not mine.
Jack,
I too wish I lived closer to that restaurant so I could make a reservation. If only more places had the same policy–like movie theaters! Who brings an infant to see an action movie? Trust me, it happens.
It is extremely fair. My wife and I are starting our own family this year. We have already had this discussion. We are not going to inflict our children on other people by taking them to PG and PG-13 movies until they are, you guessed it, older. It is the height of selfishness to take your kids out and inflict them on others when they are too young to behave yet. I've seen parents of 10 year olds who threw tantrums in restaurants and acted like 6 year olds. This is only controversial because as a society we have slowly slid into the idea that parents are supposed to validate their kids, not provide a loving disciplined home. I have seen a child who was allowed to run amok at will as a small child grow up to be kicked out of 3 public schools for discipline problems, and her parents wonder why she is a problem child, but they didn't discipline her for the first 8 years of her life. If you can't give your child equal parts love and discipline, then don't have them, and don't inflict them on me.
It's not fair to me Jack, now instead of listening to the kids I have to listen to my wife at the table.
Thank God you are talking about this Jack.
No one has addressed the long term mental heath dangers of exposure to "second hand children".
Why would this not be fair? I've been banned from smoking in restaurants, and the only reason I need to smoke when I'm there is because the unruly kids can get on my nerves. Now I wish they would ban people if they wear too much perfume!! Instant headache!
It's about time! Parents no longer teach their children to behave and if I don't have young kids why do I have to put up with other people's brats! Especially if I make the choice to go to a no kids restaurant? It always seems like the breeders who bring their 5 kids out are the ones who will/or won't control them!
Fair? FAIR? Who CARES if it's fair? Life isn't fair! I don't even care if it violates some Terrible Toddler's civil rights, frankly! If parents refuse to parent then I don't want them around. And if I'd wanted to be harassed while eating I'd have had my own brats.
Kick 'em out, I say! Kick 'em out!
Oh... you weren't talking about politicians? That's okay. Keep the young kids out too. Seriously.
Why should the rest of us suffer if parents can't control their children? I can't count how many times I've wanted to leave a restaurant, flight or store because someone else's children are misbehaving. Whatever happened to "street angel, house devil"?
I've waited over 20 years to hear this..!
May the trend propagates like wild fire..!
Yes. I can't take my dog to most restaurants and she is quieter, better behaved, and carries fewer germs than most kids. Perhaps these folks should spend more quality family meal time with their kids at home anyway.
It's about time...........that these annoying little screamers are put to rest by the restaurants. I'm paying for a meal and like it to be peaceful. I'm like you Jack if I had restraurant closer; I would call and make reservations too.
My wife and I own two family restaurants in northeast Ohio. It is more than shocking to us (who were both raised differently) that parents won't remove a screaming child from a restaurant. They'd rather finish their meal and let everyone else suffer from the endless rants of a small child. It leaves us (as owners) in the horrible situation of asking the parent to remove the child (duh! How obvious!!) so that our other customers can enjoy their meal. I think it is a GREAT idea to post a sign. Ours will go up tomorrow!
In practically every instance where I have eaten in a restaurant, from the local Burger King to a fancy place in Vegas and everything in between, there has been at least one child who talks – or, more accurately, screams – loud enough to be heard throughout the entire establishment. I have thought to myself each time, "Why is there no rule against this?" I'm glad to see there's at least one place that feels as I do, but it's too bad they're not closer to home.
I've been in restaurants where I've almost duck-taped some kid's mouths and gave reform school applications to parents. I think it is high time for a ban on noisy restaurant children – we do the same for smoking, don't we?
Babies cannot be "unruly" by definition; in fact, babies under about 4 months are probably easier to take to restaurants than older kids b/c they actually might sleep through the meal. Parents should use a litlte more common sense, and so should those who are not or are no longer parents - the whole "us against them" idea is what is really troubling about this whole discussion.
You bet I agree – It's VERY distracting when trying to relax and have a nice dining experience, when spoiled rotten brats are screaming, throwing food, leaving a nasty mess on the floor for servers to pick up. However, at Chili's over the weekend, I saw a dad actually get a napkin and pick up the mess on the floor that his kid made. Restored my faith in young parents. But, whenever my husband and I dine, especially at a nice restaurant, we always ask to be seated away from families. You pretty much can't help it at family, chain restaurants, but can at other restaurants.
Absolutely, parents that don't have manners will spawn children who don't have them either...it is the era of entitlement and lack of discipline.
I wish I lived near there, it would be my FAVORITE place to be.
I'm with you Jack. I would not only make a reservation but book the place at least once a week. parents with small screaming children seem to feel entitled to let their unruly offspring do whatever they like. Even those parents that care are helpless to handle the situation. If only cell phones could be added to the banned annoyances.
Jack – when my children were young and we went to a restaurant sometimes the little ones would be running around or be disruptive in the restaurant, we immediately left the restaurant. We saw so many unruly children. Now that my children are grown we avoid restaurants were little ones are as we want a quiet restaurant where we can have conversation and eat without all the comotion. I think this restaurant is going to do fine.
Jack,
If airlines do offer child-free flights I will be happy to pay extra for my ticket, because to have a peace and quite on a long flight is priceless.
Javier
It makes sense because it's very annoying to have a kid screaming behind you. But it's also very annoying you can't take your own family to a restaurant.
It's up to the business to decide.
I can imagine the day when Chucky Cheese bans stodgy old adults!
Each restaurant must decide how best to please its clientele.
More power to the free enterprisesystm.
Personally it amuses me when people scream discrimination when it's their children being banned, but if it's a ban on smoking in establishments it's just fine, isn't that discrimination too?
Jack...
try going to a buffet sometimes and watch how parents let their kids run loose even though signs clearly say "no unaccompanied minors at the buffet". I once saw a 3 or 4 year old girl pick up cookies off the buffet, lick the chocolate off of them then put them back up there. When the parent was confronted about this, she became angry AT THE MANAGER!! She claimed the child, "didn't know any better"!
I think it's unfair for parents like myself that can control their kids and keep them well behaved, but if you can't control your kids like the above mentioned parent then it is a FAIR rule.
I think it's a good idea.... My husband and I have two children. When they were young we avoided eating out at anyplace that wasn't catered to children. It's a matter of respect to the other dinners as well as the staff and owners. No offense to other parents, but if I wanted wine with my meal, I would order it.
I worked in a restaurant all through college and some parents just don't know how to keep their kids in line. Certain restaurants cater to different types of people and if the owner wants to have happy patrons he needs to have policies that cater to their needs. Diners don't go out to eat to listen to screaming children just like they don't go out to breathe in second-hand smoke.
Sure it's fair! My money is just as good, if not better, as that of the parents of screaming rugrats. Not to mention that because I don't have the expense of raising children, I can afford to eat out more often, and I will return to a restaurant that accommodates my preferences!
It is not the fault of the children, but the parents. I don't believe all children under 6 should be banned. People of any age who are unruly and disrespectful to those around them should be banned or asked to leave. If the parents do not suffer any consequences for the behavior of their children, the behavior will never improve.
It's about time for this sort of thing Jack. You are paying your hard earned money to have a nice dinner. There's no reason to pay if the experience is going to be unpleasant. If you liked going out to dinner so much, you should have thought of that before you had kids. You signed up for a 20 year commitment of sacrifice. Now go out to your mini-van and have some stale cherrios!
It is absolutely fair. When parents cannot or will not manage the behavior of their own children they need to limit themselves to places like "Chuckie Chesse." When we go out for a relaxing meal, the last thing we want is an obnoxious, screaming child ruining our meal.
Good work, McDains, we hope your bottom line skyrockets...
Anne and David
California
If parents cannot control their children other diners should not be punished – I totally support the restaurant and would definitely dine in child free enviroments. I raised two children and bad behaviour in public places was not tolerated. Badly behaved children get to stay at home with the sitter and they will soon learn.
Yes only I believe it should have been from 10yrs and below. More resturants need to enforce not having kids in there places.
Joe from Annapolis, MD
No, it is not fair, Jack. If you have a busines "open to the public" you
are inviting all members of "the public". To do otherwise, is being
discriminating. Bon apetit.
This country is founded on choice. It's the choice of the owner to make this change. If this choice runs him out of business then your answer is yes, this was a bad idea. If he opens 50 franchises in the next 5 years you would most likely agree he was correct to make this change.
When people who do not go to his restaurant try to have a say, that is not freedom, nor capitalism. That is ganging up and bullying the owner. Your choice is go to his establishment or not.
THIS is a case where the market will decide the right answer.
No its not fair...... what about those parents and families that have well behaved children? I have yet to be in a restaurant that does not post a sign "we reserve the right to refuse service to anyone" The owner should grow a set and follow their own policy. Politely tell the offender that they must leave. The embarrassment to the parent might well serve as catalyst to get help with their parenting skills.
I live in Pittsburgh and first heard about this just now, LOL. Any how, I support the owners right to make their own policies! C'mon, its Pittsburgh folks! There are thousands of restaurants to choose from. If you don't like it then don't go there. As a former server I can personally attest to the fact that more parents than not, don't bother to control their children when they are out to eat. They let them play with the salt and pepper, sugar caddies, throw stuff all over the floor, bang their silverware on the tables, scream, cry, run around and draw on the tables and the list goes on. For those who DO control their children I salute you, just realize that you are in the minority!
Jack, it seems that we live in an age of disrespect and young people seem to think that its just fine to make other folks suffer through their children's tantrums. That plus the fact that everyone is afraid to speak out to their children in public for fear that someone else will try to have them arrested for child abuse. I applaud the restaurant and wish them the best of luck.
Tony
Now I've seen it all. The restaurant shouldn' ban noisy kids, they SHOULD ban parents who cannot handle their kids. It's not the kids that creat the problem, it's the lazy parents who will not take the time to get involved with their kids and dicipline them.
We have two boys, Alex 12 and Jonah 10. From birth, we took them everywhere and they grew up with proper behavior/manners. Parents are afraid to take their kids out then one day they do, and the kids do what they know best...they are kids!!
Our kids are seen, not heard. They have traveled around the country, joined us in five star restaurants, enjoyed the theatre and Hollywood Bowl. They've enjoyed this culture as their parents were involved rearing.
It makes me sick that people want to blame kids for parent's behavior or lack there of. Don't even get me started on education....
Best, Seth
West Hills, CA
I am with Jack about a reservation if closer. Parents are lazy and want others to discipline their children...the most annoying is when children are crawling on the back of the booth while eating...yep!
It is their choice.
Yes it's fair. This is America. If an American owns a business and wants to cater to adults only, it's HIS right...and my right to eat in peace. I only wish he'd open a chain and put one in each town and city over 3,000 people.
All I can say is, it's about time! I may drive to Pennsylvania (from Maine) just to have a peaceful dinner out! I'm tired of screaming kids in restaurants, and, especially, parents who don't or won't parent. When you become a parent you have to make certain sacrifices. Stay home or get a sitter.
I'm sure there were a huge number of kids eating there before this. You know, after their round of golf. People in the community who have no intention of going there, will still complain because they need to be heard and are of poor disposition. It'll all blow over soon enough. Good for them, I hope they don't budge!
I completely agree with it! I have 3 children, 12, 7 and 3, and you can bet they are not allowed to act that way in a restaurant, or any place for that matter. Should they decide to, we leave and handle our parental duties. Why should everyone else have to suffer for my child's poor behavior? It gets under my skin when parents allow their children to behave that way, and honestly, its offensive. There is absolutely no excuse for it, aside from lazy parenting. I'd definitely eat at a restaurant with no children allowed (on date nights), and blissfully enjoy the peace and quiet!
I love the idea, the cost of dinning out has risen, so why should I pay the present cost to hear a child(ren) cry and make a fuss. Parents should teach their child(ren) to to behave in public and this should be done at home. Teach them how to sit and eat properly first at home before taking them out. The shame is on the parents not the unruley child(ren). If you must take your unruley child(ren) out to eat take them to McDonalds.
No it is not fair.... This is basically saying all children are bad and that is a form of discrimination. I eat out all the time with my children and we always get complimented on how well behaved our children are. This is because we have taught our children manners and are strict about how they act in public
Over all banning children is just wrong and really discriminates against many families..
I hope parents will reach out and petition against this.
Growing up as a child of the 50's, parents did not take young children out to resturants until they were old enough to behave or there was no danger of it. If we were out and misbehaved we were taken out. It has a lot to do with parenting skills, not to mention respect for others. These days you feel you have won the lottery if you go out to eat and do not have to endure a screaming, crying child. I applaud the businesses who are making a stand against bad parenting. I think it would be fair if they offending table pick up the check for ruining the meal for the rest of us.
I'm assuming that most of the people who are outraged at this situation are the parents of small children. Is it a violation of anyone's civil rights? I don't think so. There are just restaurants, movies, etc. that are less appropriate for children under six to attend. I guess this restaurant just got tired of having to remind people of basic manners while losing their core customer base at the same time.
How true! How true! People should always respect other people in all situations. When my children were young and noisy, we took them out of the restaurant or wherever we were, expecially restaurants. It is something called common courtesy. Unfortunately, we have way too many people in society these days that have not been taught simple things like common courtesy.
I think it's totally fair. I'm a waitress and deal with this all the time. People don't discipline their kids anymore and don't seem to see anything wrong with their misbehaving and disturbing the other patrons. One mother was letting her young son throw his corn all over the place and when I told him " We don' t throw our food on the floor" she told me "You're not his mother so you don't tell him what to do." Well, someone should!
Of course it's fair, but just to avoid a discrimination claim, they might want to do what the restaurant in North Carolina did though. Just put a sign in the window that says misbehaving children will not be tolerated–and then clarify that management will make the decision about whether or not the child is misbehaving.
Most parents with unruly children will likely go elsewhere–or get their kids under control. Either way, I can eat in peace.
These parents who let their kids do anything they want and think its cute need to be banned from all restaurants. Its not cute you morons, its annoying. Hello, anyone home????
They should ban parents who can't control their children. Its been many years but I can clearly remember the fear of misbehaving in public that was instilled in me at a very young age. One thing you didn't want to do was embarrass my father in a public place. In fact they should ban all people who can't behave properly in public places. How about these morons that have to talk on their cell phones in a loud voice in a restaurant? Bring back the phone booth!!!!
Steve D
New Windsor, Maryland
I think is very fair and just. Parents sparing the rod and or just not dicipline their children. As a consequence the children are running the parents not as it should be with the parents parenting and running the children. Bravo for that stablishment, I only wish more places were like them.
Frankly I applaud Mc Dains.......I raised 7 kids and when I go to a restaurant I want some peace and quiet and also to be able to hold a conversation. My kids went to restaurants only at an age when they knew how to behave. Now I usually respond with a withering gaze.
But I am furious inside especially at current prices.
I totally agree! If parents will not teach their children how to behave themselves in public settings then why should other suffer. Diners or any public place. My children knew what behavior was appropriate and if they acted unruly then I did not take them back. No matter where we were.
As much as I hate to sound like a Republican or Libertarian or simply someone who dislikes children – and I am none of the above: if we live in a free-market democracy then it is, in fact, not even a question of whether it is fair or not, but if the owner has a legal right to do so, which he does. In a free market democracy if the owner of a business is employing a idea that customer's find appealing then he or she will be successful, if enough people find the idea unfair or morally wrong or their product unappealing then he or she will fail. People forget that this our power as consumers, that we vote with our money everyday. Sadly, we are often outraged when we can't get our individual way, even when democracy has spoken.
Absolutely it's fair...in fact I would go further. If a child in a restaurants is disturbing everyone else there and the parent is doing nothing about it, patrons ought to be able to do what the parents won't do and tan their hide!!! This insane idea that children should be allowed to "express themselves", whenever, whereever, and however they want not only annoys everyone who doesn't think your kid is the center of the universe, but ultimately harms the kid's ability to deal with life's difficulties when they become an adult!!
It's a good start, but why not ban the parents that do not make the kids behave. We don't want to be sat near other families due to kids behavior and parents not caring as long as they don't bother them. Our kids behave or we take them out immediately. Parents teaching their children manners and etiquette has gone out the window. You say anything to them and they come back saying "their JUST kids!" What are you waiting for, them to turn 18 before you teach them anything to get along in life?
NICE! I support the decision and wish I could find one or two "date night" locations that offer this childless setting! I don't have children but I'm thinking no one would like this option better then those with children.
I think it's completely fair. I can't stand listening to children yelling and showing complete disrespect to their parents and those around them. What makes it worse is when the parents sit there like they are so used to it, we all have to deal with it. I wish every restaurant was like that. Let them eat at McDonalds... that is where the play area is, right? Leave the nice places to the grown ups. I live about an hour away from McDain's, and if I'm ever in the area, I'll make a point to go there. Thanks, McDain's!
I have spent time and money to arrange for someone to watch our children while my companion and I spend a quiet evening together.
I will very actively seek out establishments where I am guaranteed that we DO NOT have to be bothered by people’s children.
Dont blame the restaurants or the airlines. Americans need the dog wisperer to control their dogs!! If you cant make a dog to behave, how do you expect to control children? Parents to blame.
Of course this should be allowed, if this offends you then why would you eat there anyways? DUH
Yes I agree with this policy. When those without children go to dinner, we are not interested in having unruly children ruining out meal. We don't want to go for a good meal and spend good money for a meal that is spoiled by screaming. Parents must take into consideration the others around them and not inflict their children upon us.
Absolutely Fair!!! Maybe this should serve as a reminder to these parents that negotiate with their children until the child throws a fit, that it's time to stop being their kids "friends" and start parenting! Quiet meal??? Reservation for two please!
ABSOLUTELY , fabulous idea! I already; when being seated by the hostess; request to not be seated near small kids.
The only people it will offend is those parents who let the brats run wild.
The restaurant is better off without them, unless of course your CHUCKY CHEEZE.
I agree with banning of children under 6 years that can't be controlled by their parents. I eat out a lot and hate it that it is almost impossible to find a restaurant that bans screaming out of control kids. I guess that's why I like casinos so much. It's worth a hundred dollars an hour not to have to put up with screaming kids that the parents don't even seem to notice.
No, it is not fair. I love kids. They are young people and will get old and stuffy soon enough. Tolerate them.
Contrary to you guys opinion, there are children who are well behaved in restaurants and their parents should not be penalized from going or from myself, a grandparent, taking them. Penalize those who don;t behave. Do they not allow adults for loud talk and behavior? First time I have done this.
Why is this even a question? Of course it's fair, and I'm a parent who has many kids including two under the age of 6. Would they get my business, of course not, but that's the point...they don't want it, and yes, sometimes my kids act up in spite of the best parenting my wife and I can put forward. If I owned a restaurant, I would prohibit stupid people from eating at my establishment. Why, because for the same reason the owner in PA doesn't want screaming kids around, I'd prefer not to surround myself with stupid idiots, and I bet there are some folks who'd like to eat in THAT kind of environment.
They choose to ban children. I can also choose to not spend my money there. Jack, along with your comment about airlines needing customers, including children, I feel this also applies to other establishments such as restaraunts. My message will be with my wallet. Let the children eat! Thanks for the opportunity to comment. Ed.
Great idea Jack maybe more restaurants will follow , If my wife and I lived closer to the place we would make reservations tonight for dinner also that way she could get your autograph. have a good day
Given our druthers, my wife and I would only go to establishments that did not tolerate noisy/disruptive behavior from underage children. We shake our heads in dismay at those who are supposed to be acting like parents who allow their children to run amok other patrons. I wish this place was closer to DC so we could go there.
I have two children and completely understand the owner's motives. Some restaurants are inappropriate for children. Not many young children can sit through a two to three hour meal.
The U.S is slowly making another big step toward thirdworldship. It's not enough that we rank #42 in Infant Mortality Rate due to bad health policies, now we need to exclude children from our social encounters and keep them hungry so we can make more money! Go capitalism go!
If we seclude screaming kids today, get ready for screaming adults sometime soon.
completely fair sadly most parents aren't parents any more they're their children's friends and do not discipline them or control them. which allows the children to act horribly without fear or even a thought of consequences, or if there are consequences they are not consistent which turns it into a game of what can i get away with for the children.
YES! People don't make the kids behave anymore. I would suggest that ANYONE who runs around disrupting other diners should be tossed out. I knew when I was far younger than 6 that if we went to a nice restaurant I was to speak just above a whisper and stay quietly in my seat. Kids even older should be banned if their parents can't control them.
As a father of 4 boys, I APPLAUD this move by the restaurant. Having kids also means having the responsibility of keeping them civil and in their seats when eating out.
I wouod loe to dine where children under 6 are not allowed. It would be so peaceful.
Jack,They should "ban the Parents" of Kids under 6 years old.
If they cant control their kids they shouldnt be messing it up for everyone else.
YES! YES! YES! My husband and I avoid eating out to avoid screaming babies and rotten behavior of kids whose parents have abdicated all common sense and never taught their munchkins that they must be considerate of others in public eateries of ANY TYPE! When did parents become so clueless and selfish? Oh, wait. THEY were raised that they were the center of the earth, and now we see the results. Restaurant managers have fear in their eyes when we ask them to intervene. WHY? They don't want to get cursed out or ignored by the clueless parents! Ever been triangulated with 3 screaming babies in a nearly empty, pricey seafood restaurant? There is NOWHERE you can sit to avoid the lunacy.
I wish this was close by. I have had many meals trashed by screaming kids and thier could not care less parents. And shopping has been more then a headache at times with children so out of control screaming and running around I left my cart and complained to the manager and left the store. I haven't gone back there and will not I found a more adult place to shop and the managers care about keeping the PAYING customers happy.
It would be better if the restaurant had banned kids under 16.
I much rather sit in the company of people with a dog as pets are generally behaving much better. Recently I became so annoyed by the uncontrollable behavior of a kid on the plane I advised his mother that next time she should ship him in the cargo hold!
I don't know why you find it necessary to ask "is this fair", as if there were any legitimate controversy here! A business owner has the right to make business decisions like this, and those who don't like those decisions can take their business elsewhere. End of story.
We've all seen the signs that read "We reserve the right to refuse service to anyone". The restaurant owners are simply exercising their right as owners of a public establishment and there is nothing unfair about exercising one's rights.
A few years ago while living in Portland, OR, we took visiting relatives to a nice restaurant (Victoria Station) & they brought along their 2 year old daughter. She screamed at the top of her lungs the entire meal while we were all getting angry looks from other patrons. We asked her if she could please get the child to be quiet & she responded the the child "was expressing herself." By the end of the meal, only one other couple remained in the restaurant, everyone else left because they could not tolerate the screaming & enjoy their meal. So I say "good for the restaurant in PA!!" Hope some restaurants in the rest of the country adopt the same regulation. Mr. Cafferty, I enjoy your program & wish it was at least an hour long. Thank you. Mary
i am a grandmother of three boys.One 5 and the twins are two and a half.
as a person who has taken these three kids and their parents out to dinner and hear their screaming and out of control behavior and watch as my son and his wife do nothing I would have to agree with the places that would ban kids under 6.
Small children shouldn`t be expected to act like adults so why bring them to a restaurant where they certainly do not enjoy, not do they benefit from, an adult experience. There are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants where children are not expected to behave??? like adults.
Some friends and I were recentely in a restaurant where a couple of kids were out of control.. We politely asked the parents if they would control the kids and they went nuts. They were worse than the kids. I thought it would end in a bar room brawl.
It is fair and long overdue. There was a time when children were taught table manners and how to behave in public. Not anymore. My husband and I no longer frequent establishments that promote themselves as "family friendly." We associate "family friendly" with undisciplined children and clueless parents. Should children have the right to dine in restaurants and act as they please? Yes. But the rest of us have the right to not tolerate it.
Jack,
I think this is a great idea. The people who want to eat without hearing children screaming through dinner have some place to go, and those with the brats have something to complain about. it's win/win.
As for your remark about airlines I hope they are listening because I'd gladly pay more for a flight without screaming babies as well. Parents, just because you are desensitized to your noisy kids does not give you carte blanche to annoy the rest of us.
The restaruant owner has as much right to ban children under 6 as she does to take spaghetti off her menu. Great idea! Yet another reason for me to move home to the great city of Pittsburgh!
Start the wave I say! Amen! Bravo! My youngest is 16 and my oldest is 29, my children knew how not to behave in public because we took the time to teach them manners and appropriate behavior. The only place they tested boundaries was in the home and we addressed it.
Of course while raising my children I did not plant them in front of the tv to babysit them. Maybe the bad behavior, at least one point to consider, is once they are removed from video games/tv....their developing brain is so stimulated that it is hard to calm...I do not know.
I hope more restaurants follow the lead of the NC and PA eateries!
=o ]
What is to stop a busness next from banning Seniors because they take to long to eat or refusing to serve people that are overweight because they take up to much floor space. It is age discrimination against children. There food is paid for the same as anyone else. If you don't like it ask the parents to LEAVE like you would and other rowdy customer. Stop serving a KIDS MENU,and advertise NO KIDS MENU. That should limit your families. Banning children will just get you sued.
Why just six and under? How about those loud-mouths six and over?
Absolutely!! Most parents this day and age have no control over their kids. They let them do as they wish. Teach them to respect fellow diners or leave them at home!! The older folks taught their kids manners .
Absolutely – I don't know how many times my husband and I have gone to a restaurant and have screaming and unruly children sitting (with their parents) right next to us. The parents do NOTHING and our dinner is ruined as we can't even enjoy a peaceful evening dining out, not even to mentioned the money we have paid for this experience.
Linda
Florida
Hysterics aside, this is a business decision by the restaurant owner. And a smart one. He has selected who he wants his customers to be, one's that will have a higher check with less hassle. As a restaurant server for more than ten years, I can tell you first hand, many parents feel the restaurant should be their babysitter, as they take a break from rearing the dear little ones. They feel it's in the check!
Is it a chain? Will it come here? Quite frankly, I am tired of the cult of the child and my child can do no wrong piousnous that those with children espose while their monsters run amok through stores, theaters, and restaurants. I would dine exclusivley at any restaurant in my town who would dare to put this practise in action. Fair, life isn't fair and the six year old isn't paying my bill.
Jack,
It should be a small restaurant owner's right not to cater to young families.
Perhaps there will be a new restaurant sign: No Shoes, No Shirt, No Children under 6, No Service !!
Jack
its about time someone evened the playing field.
With all those amusement rides saying you must be shorter than this hight to ride.Usually under age six fits this size.
I think restaurants should put height signs on their doors as well.
exceptions for handicapped etc. of course.
then the kids will consider it the same as a ride for taller people.
just like the amusement parks and easy to explain to the kids.
john worcester mass
John, if a person does not like the sand box he/she is playing find another sandbox! I have 3 boys 23,19,and 11. They are well behaved kids who know and or learned how to act in public. Now babies cannot be punished for "acting out" not going to happen!! BUT, I love the concept of this restaurant. Now on the airplane issue I still at the age of 41 whine when my ears pop. Kid free flights huh your going 2 pay extra like every thing else–baggage, pets, but i love that concept too. If dont like whats on t.v. turn the channel.
I don't see anything wrong with what the business wants to do, I have a hard time hearing screaming kids in Walmart but I can't do anything like that!
My children quickly learned that misbehavior got them marched out of the restaurant WITHOUT their food/prizes/treats etc. Loudness, refusal to remain in their seats, or rudeness filled the bill as misbehavior. This treatment began young. The result was delightful service from food establishments, compliments on their behavior, and a peaceful time by all. The business community has the right to refuse service for lack of apparel, to forbid the wearing of cleated shoes in their locations, or ban cell phones during concerts, movies, etc. As long as the ban applies regardless of individual ethnicity, I want to eat at that or any other restaurant that protects its customer base from misbehaving children (and their accompanying parents who permit it)
Yes it is fair, people have the right to enjoy their dinner at a restaurant . If u bring young children to eat and u know u children are not well behaved, leave them home. U should take them to mcdonalds or the like. When my kids were young if they misbehaved, we took them out immediately. Now parents ignore the kids and let them do what they want. Been there done that !
If the owner wants to ban children from his resturant, he has every right. Its his restaurant. He has to think of his current customers. He also has to think about new customers. This could be a way to get new people into his business. If I had problems with kids running in the restaurant, and bothering my customers and enough customers complained it may be better for business so he keeps his current customers.
When they start banning boors with cell phones you can count me in.
Yes, I think its fair...we are a big family wtih 4 boys and my wife and I know that our boys get out of hand when we are dining out. Every parent know its hard to control children all the time, that's why kids are called kids. But we take great care in going to places that are kids friendly and make our servers aware of our situation before hand, then leave a big tip for them. My wife and I never go out to restaurants that we know are for adults only. We save those places for our date nights and leave our kids with the grandparents..parents need this once in awhile. We love our kids, but we never would let them go out of control in restaurants or any other public places. Those parents allow their kids to run wild need to teach their kids manners, but that's another story...
Um... I believe I was under the age of six for six years, and I suspect I expressed unhappiness with more than a few decibels of noise. Consequently, in all fairness, I am willing to endure a few screams from newcomers to our world as they watch us grown-ups bent on decimating it...
Yeah it's fair! To me crying kids are like second hand smoke. You can't avoid it no matter how much you try!!
I think we have a serious problem in this country with parents that are not fit to be one. I am so sick of going to a resteaurant or even at the supermarket and having to deal with other peoples' kids unruly and frankly obnoxious behavior. The parent just ignores the kids and pretends nothing is happening. Parents should need to take a test to get a license to be one. You need one to fish
The main problem is the parents do not correct their little darlings, they have no idea how unruly and upsetting these little monsters can be. People pay good money to go to a nice restaurant for the experience and unruly children make it very upsetting. Hurray for this Monroeville restaurant. There should be more owners doing the same thing.
When we were growing up children were seen but not heard!
Hey, how about a kid free Walmart!!!
like you jack, wish they had a restaurant here i would make a reservation. southwest airlines got the message and moved all children to board with there parents after "a" boarding was complete, instead of first seating. i have 6 grand children that fall into this age bracket, but they behave, problem is we can't use the belt like my father did, especially in public.
Last night I was at a restaurant in Las vegas and paying $250 for a steak dinner their was a screaming kid throwing food his parents just sat there did nothing. I can say ban children from some restaurants or have a curview
I applaud the owners of the restaurant. They should be able to create the optimal atmosphere to optimize their prophets. Many other restaurants do the same in reverse and cater to the young. It would be nice to sit down and have a meal knowing ahead of time it will be peaceful and relaxing, which is part of the reason you go out in the first place.
I'm from New Kensington and know Monroeville well.
Great policy. More places should adopt it.
Parents today (how were they raised?) need some old school lessons about courtesy, consideration, respect.
Really, I often wonder if one should have a license to have a child; the most valuable gift a society can create, so haphazardly by morons, very sad.....
I have always been surprised over the years when people have come up to me in restaraunts and complimented my children's behavior. Now I guess I see why. People should be able to go out to dinner and enjoy a nice meal and the owner of this establishment has every right to provide that experience to his costomer. I still have two young children at home age 5 and 7 and I would not be offended that they were not welcome here, I would just make it a point to go with my husband instead.
Heidi in Severn MD
Kids are not the problem...irresponsible owners are, but that would also apply to dogs, cars, cell phones...
No it isn't fair to make the restaurant have to deal with your children for you. I'm 20 and when I was a kid if I acted up in public I would be scolded very harshly. On the rare occasion that didn't work my parents would leave and I would later be disciplined. I just feel sorry for the good parents that actually have well behaved children that have to suffer for others lacking.
Bravo! It's about time some level of consideration is given to other diners who are violated by these little ill-mannered tyrants. In all fairness to the children, it's not their fault. The responsibility lies with the parents who sit there totally clueless to their little angels outrageous behavior. Nobody wants to see these little peoples psyche's damaged by being taught social skills or manners. Allowing them to evolve at will is not the answer to raising socially healthy people however. It is inconceivable to subject every other person in a restaurant to the screaming, temper tantrum throwing, disruptive behavior of these children. It's about time some limits were put down to protect the rest of the dining public.
Because of my past history and fighting for civil rights in this country, I am a bit leery about public places banning particular groups. However, I would prefer a restaurant where I and my husband or friends could go without noisy, unruly children. I would pay extra for a seat on a plane and not hear a childs voice. Thanks for asking! There are parents whose children are little darlings, speak in low tones, do not disturb others, and do not put their elbows on the dinning table. It does begin at home.
The problem is really the parents, not the children. My husband and I are very aware of our children's behavior. When our boys even act like they're going to melt down one of us loads them up and takes them to the car while the other stays and pays the check. We've received compliments from our servers on many occasions for being on top of the situation.
I absolutely agree with this restaurant's policy! Eating out in this economy is a luxury. People should not have the experience ruined by a kid who is screaming while his parents look the other way and talk over the child. I believe that in every restaurant that is not child-focused it should be expectation that if a child is misbehaving and the parents are not in control of the situation, the restaurant staff will ask the family to leave.
Queen Creek, AZ
Absolutely! Number one – he is a privately owned entity and he is 100% entitled to make his own rules. Number two – in our current society it has become more than obvious that parents don't seem to have any control over themselves muchless their children and/or their behavior. These un-ruly children are going to become un-ruly teenagers and then un-ruly adults without any form of self control or socially acceptable behavior. If one (parents and children) has no social decency and concern for their fellow people/patrons, they should expect to see more institutions (such as this restaurant) follow suit and remove the 'problem' from the situation. I totally agree with the restaurant owners policy. 'Politically correct' is 'socially incorrect' in this situation...
Kudos – adults have rights too. I have been met with hostility when I have asked to be seated away from children. I am over lazy self-entitled parents who can't be bothered to actually "parent" their loud and rude brats.
There are establishments for these people that are enjoying the idea of Child free zones its called a BAR! Go to it, enjoy your night off from kids every where. But know this...my children did not behave like that when they were that age and I had enough sense to snatch them up, remove them form the area and punish them if needed. Maybe that is why I have such great kids nowI understand how people feel about screaming children. Heck I hate it to! So basically, I have to feel segregated because some pushover of a parent cant control his or her kid. Lame
It's not only fair, it's reasonable and appreciated by many. Parents tend to think of their little clones as cute. For the most part, they are not. They are often disruptive, self-centered and clueless.
YES, this is fair! I greatly applaud this restaurant owner for taking such measures! There is nothing more annoying than a child having a tantrum in a restaurant. I hope more restaurants follow the same steps, so we can all enjoy our meals. Happy customers equals happy business!
I am a Grandparent and love listening to the squeals and noises of the small children when I go to McDonalds or Wendys or Denny's or other such places. Most times the parents of the offending child are trying to control the kids behavior, which is their job as parents. However, we need more places where kids should be restricted by age, like this. Maybe the places serving the baby the wine cooler or other alcoholic drinks might be in line to try it. We certainly need more places like this. Thank you.
You really want to hear a baby cry, and for a good reason? Spend a year in Vietnam. I have 4 grand children, and their parents know enough to remove the child if they may disturd anyone in a resturant.
Sorry I forgot to add this point. One has to remember that these children will one day grow up and be wanted guests of this diner. For every 1 dissatisfied patron they tell 10 friends about there bad experience. Human nature.
good for them. I m paying good money for a peaceful dinner out with my wife. If I wanted all that commotion I would go visit my grand kids. NOTE: the children are misbehaving because they are in an environment not designed for them- try McDonald's- its their specialty.
They should also ban the ignorant and disgruntled that just want to sit around and bitch about politics, That is equally annoying to have to listen to. I wish more of them tuned into CNN and did a fact check.
When the little crumbsnatchers are old enough to have their own corporation and start their own PAC, then they can have rights. Cy from Arlington, Va
Don't restaurants have the right to refuse service to anyone? Doesnt matter what they serve. More should ask the parents to take the kids out. Why should others have to put up with the bad parents inability to control their child? OR teach them how to behave in public. I can take my 4 year old to any restaurant with NO issue.. and no videos or games. Parents fault on both ends.
thing is they are not talking about bad behavior. They are stating all children. Even the well behaved ones.
If the parents can't police their own children it is up to the manager of the place to ASK THE FAMILY TO LEAVE. GOD FORBID we actually address the problem. We would rather throw a blanket ban.
I say it is not fair at all. Some kids have perfect manners. If they can't go to a restaurant at 6, then why do they get to go to school at 5. You are trained to go to school. Teachers still help with behavior a little. First you should politely ask the parent to control their child. If they cannot do so, they will be kicked out
Great idea........We dont just have a debt problem, we have a discipline problem.....some of our kids are awful......
Bravo! This is a great decision made by the restaurant. More should follow suit. It is quit annoying when trying to enjoy a nice dinner, and kids are behaving badly. What's worse is that some parents do not even try to control them. As my mother said to a couple that wouldn't control a party of girls running around a restaurant, "Its is not fair that the children are allowed to behave like this in a public place." Only then, did the father said he would talk to the girls. Give me a break!
Also, totally agree that children should be banned from First Class on airplanes. Why pay more for a flight, to have some child screaming the whole way.
GREAT IDEA!! Kill two birds with one stone. No more bad parents and their rotten children.
I believe that too few parents these days can control their children’s behavior and I completely understand the restaurant owner’s move to ban children under the age of six from a marketing and revenue perspective. I will, however, be extremely surprised if they are not sued under the Equal Protection Clause of the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution. I am not saying that the plaintiffs will win, but I am sure people will try. What a way to find a niche in the market though. I am sure there will be plenty of demand that will increase the restaurant’s revenue, especially since more people are waiting until later in life to have children. From a social perspective you have to wonder how actions like these reflect on U.S. parent’s ability to discipline their children. Forgive my language, but you are darned if you do and darned if you don’t. If you discipline your children in public you face the possibility of someone calling DCFS on you, and if you don’t discipline them at all you are inconsiderate and irresponsible.
A restaurant policy banning children under the age of 6 is totally fair because the experience of eating in a restaurant should be a relaxing experience for all patrons. (I've heard that aggitation while eating is not good for digestion.) Beside that, if I'm paying to eat somewhere, I shouldn't have to suffer from the disruptive behavior of other people's children. If more parents in that area had taught and required their children to behave better, parents would not be facing this ban. It's what psychologists call a "logical consequence."
I think its the joints call...If they dont want that crowd then they dont have to let them in....same with racial stuff, if you want to be a racist and think you can survive the public backlash then more power to you.
If parents would control their kids, no action needed. But most parents kids just let them run amuck.
Kick the kids out...........
Sure it's fair! Whose restaurant is it, anyway?
There are plenty of restaurants and other venues that have all sorts of requirements and restrictions of their own making pertaining to their clientele; McDain's is hardly alone. I don't see anybody protesting people not being allowed to take their kids into bars; why should they care if they can't take them to McDain's? After all, It's not as if every restaurant on the planet has closed their doors to children.
There are some things in life that are simply "grownup" things. I for one find it utterly refreshing that this establishment considers itself one of them. And as a grownup who has long since graduated from kindergarten, it's comforting to know I have "options" when it comes to deciding upon with whom I am going to share my "snack time."
Ultimately, any protest over this private enterprise's new policy just begs the question: Why would you want to belong to a club that doesn't want you for a member? (And that would include your noisy, disruptive offspring.)
As a former waiter at both casual and fine dining restaurants I completely understand the how unruly kids can ruin an evening. As a generality, tables with misbehaving children don't spend as much money and the surrounding tables usually finish early forgoing desert or more drinks. Like it or not, it's good for business.
Is it fair that I decided to go to a restaurant for a good meal and experience and had to listen to the kids on the table next to me are screaming and making my meal not enjoyable?
Personally, I don't think it was "wrong" for the owner to do such a thing, but ultimately, imho, the issue usually isn't the children, but the parents who haven't raised them to behave in public places.
I knew how to behave in restaurants and so does my 6yr old. If things start to get "loud" or "out of control" we take my daughter outside and talk to her about it until she cools down. Or we just pay the bill and roll, dealing with it at home and/or away from the restaurant (or store, etc...).
Most the time, my 6yr old is better behaved than anyone under 23 that I run into these days. Why not just run a "retirement" restaurant? Lets just hope this places adult patrons don't start getting too loud, or we'll have to ban them too!
Hi Jack,
When you make your reservations for McDanes, make one for me too! Hooray for them! Now if we could just get rid of the morons carrying on heated business discussions on their cell phones, things would be as pleasant as they used to be years ago!
Jim
it should be up to the owner. i'v been in rest. business for 40 yrs. and have seen parents let small children draw on booths, tables, walls with crayons.anything as to not bother the adults. they overturn sugar & salt & pepper shakers and then let older children accompany smaller children to the restrooms only to end up with water fights & toilet tissue all over the floors which can result in slip & falls not only for the children but for seniors!
In general, kids are out of control in any situation. When I go out and spend good money to have a decent meal, I want it to be in a decent atmosphere. There is absolutely nothing wrong with banning children from certain restaurants. Wish we had some here in Dallas!
No, it's not fair. What if every restaurant adopted this policy? Then parents of young children would be denied the ability to eat out, which would be unfair. This restaurant is making an exception of itself, which is the essence of injustice.
Simple solution to this- discipline your kids. When we were kids, we had to behave otherwise we wouldn't be allowed to go to the fancy restaurant again. We were quiet, chewed our food with our mouths shut, and said please and thank you to the waitress. Our mom would jab us in the side with her elbow if we didn't cover our mouths while coughing, yawning, etc. Not that we were good kids- we were forced to behave under threat of punishment.
When parents resume disciplining their kids- this kind of thing won't be necessary. It's not the fair solution- but unfortunately, the last resort at the moment.
I wish there were MORE restaurants, movie theatres and other public places willing to take such a stand. Yes, it IS FAIR, for them to enforce these policies to protect their clientele from children with absolutely no manners or discipline. Do you think I want to get food off a buffet line where all those little snot-nosed rugrats have been touching everything? I no longer patronize any buffet-style restaurants because of this. Ewwww. If your child cannot be depended upon to behave, then STAY HOME. Shrieking and tantrum-throwing are NOT acceptable public behaviors! The parents should know better, but entirely too often, they do not. Just because YOUR life is miserable doesn't mean you have the right to ruin my experience. Smokers have been banned & I find that MUCH less obtrusive or offensive than badly-behaved kids. It's time to ban brats, screamers, shriekers, wailers and hyperactive run-and-jumpers. And, NO, that doesn't mean you can lock them in your 120-degree vehicle while you eat!
When my nieces and nephews were young, they were always told that if they did not behave in a restaurant then they would have to leave and sit in the car. Of course, that would mean that an adult also went with the child. It takes a bit of courtesy, discipline, and work which are sadly lacking in today's parents to make the dining experience pleasant for everyone.
It also helps the child learn that they are not the center of the universe and that people can and sometimes desire not to be in their presence.
A good deal of this type of problem lies with the parents.
They're going to be out of business soon! I know a whole bunch of attorneys watering at the mouth on this one lol
This is completely fair. There is no mandate saying everyone is supposed to like children. Some people hate children, others adore them, and most of us are somewhere in between. Everyone is free to pursue their own personal fulfillment, which for some means opting to not have children. If a majority of their clientele are the type that don't like children or just would rather not have children present during their social outings, then the restaurant must respond to this demand.
Some of us have small children that are well behaved. If the kids are misbehaving, ask them to leave but an outright ban is discrimination. Let them put up a sign that says "whites only" and see how long that lasts before someone steps in. Same thing, it is discrimination against one certain group.
Jack - The problem is not the child, the problem is the parent. I have a retail business and I see this issue on a weekly basis. When I was a child, if I was disruptive, my parents would remove me from the establishment and try to resolve my issue through placation or discipline and then bring me back to the establishment once things were under control. Today - a lot of parents don't care about how they are disrupting the experience of others - whether a restaurant or any other business that serves the public. Sometimes I ask people to leave my store until they can get their child under control. Those people I have to ask to leave - rant and rave on thier way out but other customers thank me. I support the move by this restaurant owner.
I have 3 kids, we have been complimented on our kids behavior in restaurants. We didn't tolerate them misbehaving.
As a mother of two men int their 40's who were raised by a single mom, I couldn't agree more. My sons have excellent manners and a lot of stories about their being tortured by a mother that expected them to behave.
Restaurant rules: 1st offense: The LOOK
2nd offense: A pinch under the table (I know)
3rd offense: A trip to the BATHROOM with Mom
4th offense: Leave immediately and go home
It didn't take long to stop at The LOOK.
YES. YES and YES. But my problem is not so much with out of control
children, but with parents who can not control their little brats. Some parents seem to think this behavior is funny and that is the problem.
Absolutely, it is fair. Is this not a privately owned restaurant? End of story.
With all the crap, the injustice, the real discrimination going on in the world, surely the naysayers can find a better outlet than this.
No, it's not fair, Jack. If you run a business, it is "open to the public"
and certainly six year olders are part of that public. To do otherwise is
simply discrimination. Bon Apetit.
Yes its fair. If that is how the restaurant wants to define itself. I would enjoy eating there.
It's about as bad as bringing a baby to a movie.. I want to eat at this restaurant..
Jack, they should also ban parents under the age of 10 !
if they dont like it, go to pizza hut
This is a simple case study in the law of supply and demand – if parents or the community doesn't like it, I am confident there are other establishments that those dissenters can go to for dinner. As an individual without children, I would increase my dining at an establishment with this policy in place, and I am confident I am not the only non-parent who feels this way.
Wish I was close enough to dine there. Dining out is not any everyday occurrence for me. So when I go it would be nice to have the meal with badly behaving children. Although it is the parents that usually at fault it is the other half that gets punished.
People who say no are the same who get upset about being shut down at the door into the "cool" clubs.
It's about time! Parents have gotten so lax in their parenting skills that kids have zero restraint no matter where they are. Whether in a restaurant, church or someone else's home they still think it's perfectly acceptable to run and shout, make a mess and generally misbehave. The worst part is parents don't do anything about it.
I'm sure the restaurant would have rather not done this but they had no other choice since they wanted to run a restaurant where people really wanted to dine instead of a day care center!
Jack I listen to you daily. People tend to forget that for 3 yrs. the super rich, with there tax breaks, are the people that layed off all of these people. The super rich are not creating jobs, they are killing jobs. Tax the stupid suckers to the hilt and maybe they will come off some of those billions.
I private business owner has the prerogative to run their business as they see fit. If most of this restaurant's clientele will be more likely to frequent without children under 6 present, then its a great idea. Those that are complaining need to realize that it is their responsibility to parent their children, not subject others to your failure to do so.
Absolutely fair and I would beat a path to their door. What isn't fair is having your dining experience ruined by people who don't get that not everyone finds their offspring adorable. I have literally been seated at a table for several minutes only to have kids (3, between ages 2-5 I would guess) come out from under the tablecloth and run screaming around the restaurant to another table to ambush some other unfortunates. I shouldn't have to be subjected to that as a paying customer.
Take them to a child-appropriate place until they learn to sit still at a table and communicate at an appropriate volume.
I believe any private business has the right to keep children from dining in their business if they choose to market to an older clientele. Anyone with children knows even the best parents can't always keep their children behaving perfectly. I think more than anything, these movements to ban children from establishments, areas of airplanes and the like is a reflection on how little we value children in our society and our level of self-centeredness as a nation.
Yes, I have been saying that for years!! I would also pay extra for an ADULT ONLY FLIGHT!! Most children today are not taught to behave. I never would have behaved the way most of them do today! When I go into a restaurant, if they try to seat me by children, I ask to be moved. Now if I go to a fast food place or a children's place, I know that all is fair.
Yes, this is entirely fair! Kids that can't sit still or keep their voices down should not be allowed to dine at nice restaurants. Hire a baby sitter!!!
This is the beauty of America. It's a free country, in which business owners can decide how to run their business, and people can decide whether or not to go there.
As a mom of 3 kids, even though I did what I could to control them in restaurants, when they were under 6, sometimes they just couldn't sit still that long. When they did act up, it was really embarrassing, and I would take them out when I could – and that would wreck my dinner.
I understand that some people don't care if their kids act up, and that is annoying. If this restaurant is good enough to be worth it, go to it on a date night and leave the kids with a sitter.
Bottom line – the restaurant owners can do what they want, and if it backfires, then I guess it didn't work. If you don't agree with eating meat, you don't go to a steak joint, right? If you disagree with banning kids, and it makes you mad, don't go there. They'll have plenty of new customers to fill in the gap.
No Shoes, No Shirt, Cell Phone On, Have Kids: NO SERVICE!
It's absolutely fair, and I wish more businesses in all industries would adopt it. I've had better behaved dogs than some of these children running around in public these days.
If you want kids to behave like grown ups, then there is no fun in this life
YES!!!!!!!! There is nothing I hate more, unless it is the parents, are kids that raise hell in a restaurant. If you can't afford a baby sitter then stay home. But if you do go to a restaurant that does allow this chaos then use the baby sitter money as extra tip money. You would be a real ass if you did not leave a very large tip for the server that had to put up with your party.
i recall a time when parents made smart choices, like "dont take a brat to a restaurant" or "dont take a crying baby to see Lord of the Rings 2." however, today, some people dont have common sense. besides, a kids meal at a restaurant is usually the size of 4 meals (ever order chicken fingers and fries on the kids menu?) kids shouldnt eat this crap anyway. there is never healthy food at restaurants that kids wont complain about either.
Yes, it's fair. As the mom of a two year old there are just some places we cannot go. It isn't that parents won't control their kids, but until they reach a certain age there are limitations to how they can "control" their kids. I would love to go to a restaurant and actually have more than a few bites, but I know if I take the little one it is hopeless.
Of course, it is their business. People can eat elsewhere.
Why don't we just ban children from all places we don't want undesirables. Malls. Ballgames. Parks. Public pools. We can go back to the days of segregation. Kids can sit in the back of the bus. As long as we don't have to hear them, that is. If they make a noise, forget it, they can't ride. Nobody wants kids around. They ruin my day.
YES! Absolutely! Parents inability to control their children is NOT my problem and should not disturb my dinner. GO TO McDONALDS!
I am all for it! No one wants to hear screaming kids while they are eating or anywhere for that matter. I find that more and more, parents are not parenting. they are not teaching and instilling social skills. i blame the whole "time out" movement. i NEVER had a problem with my kids in public. they knew how to behave, they were respectful and polite. they weren't born that we, we taught them these skills. children are a reflection of their parents – you are NOT their friend, you are their parent, do your job!
Yep-it is fair.
What is wrong with you people? Has everyone forgot they were kids at one time? You were not perfect. You cried and acted out. This is life. Get over it. I hope when judgement day comes God doesn't tell you no you can't go to heaven because you cried at a restaurant or on a plane when you were six years old.